A Guide to Your First Time Traveling Internationally

If it’s your first time traveling internationally, then you may not know what to expect. Will it be similar to the domestic trips you’ve come to know and love? Or will this be a completely new task that you’ll have to learn to tackle? Maybe this is your first time even getting on an airplane. Try to push your fears to the side and embrace the excitement of this new adventure. Here are a couple tips that we think will help you to conquer this journey just a little bit easier.

Preparing all documents well in advance

You'll definitely need a passport for an international trip, and you may even need a visa. Looking into the process of obtaining these documents, well in advance of your departure, can be a good idea since the time to complete application processes may vary. You could save yourself from a true travel nightmare by being prepared. Even for estimated time frames on the arrival of these documents, it’s probably better to have extra buffer room in case something goes wrong or if it shows up after it estimated time of arrival.

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You may want to consider making a copy of both passport/visa documents, as well as any reservation documents that you might need in order to check in at your destination. Internet connection isn’t always guaranteed in foreign countries. It can be important to save copies of all your important documentation both on your mobile device and also as a hard copy, should it become necessary.

Chatting with Your Primary Care Doctor

Often during the planning process for a vacation, we may not think about checking in with our doctor unless we have pre-existing conditions. But it can be a good idea to at least call and ask if they have any recommendations for your upcoming trip. Depending on the length of time you will be traveling and the country or countries that you’re going to, your doctor might have some advice you’ll want to take note of.

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If you are going to be gone for an extended amount of time, he/she may recommend bringing back up medication. Or they might let you know what alternative you could possibly find wherever you're going should you have an emergency. Additionally, there are some places that may require you to get vaccines before entering. For these reasons, and more, you might want to reach out to your doctor as soon as you can once travel plans are arranged.

Considering Currency

In our age of technology and convenience we are growing more and more comfortable with digital payments or swiping our cards.  Every country may not follow this way of making payments. Some countries may prefer a more cash-based system for payment. Regardless of which scenario you believe to be the case, you may want to take some time to understand the country’s currency. You may also consider bringing even a small amount of local currency with you in case of emergency.

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Consider leaving enough time for you to exchange money at your home bank. Trying to convert money in the airport or once at your destination may not be easy. There might be lines as well as larger exchange rates. You may save yourself the hassle by doing it in advance.

Getting a Power Adapter

Even the most seasoned travelers might make the mistake of leaving important power adapters at home. It’s important, however, and you may want to check that this item on your packing list. Not all countries around the world use the same plug-in power cords. Additionally, the various countries throughout the world may have a difference in standard voltage. In some cases, attempting to use your home chargers could damage your devices. You may want to schedule a visit to a technology store, or you may want to check online to order the correct power adapter for your location. Consider putting it in your suitcase or carry-on in advance so it doesn’t get left behind.

Considering Travel Protection

Even after preparing well for a trip, the unexpected can happen. You may want to consider obtaining travel protection before your trip. Purchasing travel protection as soon as possible after your initial trip deposit can be important for certain protection plans. By having travel protection, you may be reimbursed for prepaid, non-refundable trip costs should something go wrong. Talk to your travel advisor today or visit our website to learn more about how travel protection might be able to help you.